Black national anthem performance draws social media reaction over Super Bowl weekend

Coco Jones performed “Lift Every Voice and Sing” before Super Bowl LX, prompting renewed debate on social media

Coco Jones’ performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” ahead of Super Bowl LX prompted renewed debate on social media as fans gathered for the championship game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots.

Jones performed the song during the pregame ceremonies at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, as spectators began to enter the venue. The performance took place before a special appearance by Green Day, who later took the stage to honour Super Bowl MVPs from the league’s previous 59 championship games.

“Lift Every Voice and Sing”, often referred to as the Black national anthem, has been included in NFL events since the 2020 season. Its presence at the Super Bowl has regularly generated discussion online, and this year’s performance was no exception.

Posts on X criticised the NFL’s continued use of the song as part of its pregame programme, while others focused their reactions on the league’s approach rather than Jones’ rendition itself.

Jones’ performance also received praise from viewers, with some social media users commenting positively on her vocals and delivery. However, criticism of the NFL’s decision to feature the song again emerged shortly after the broadcast began.

The league first introduced “Lift Every Voice and Sing” into its events following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, an incident involving police officers that led to widespread protests and calls for action against racial injustice across the United States. The song has historical significance, having been promoted by the NAACP as the Black national anthem since 1917.

Jones, a singer, songwriter and actress who has appeared on Bel-Air and The Voice, released her first studio album, Why Not More?, in April. She was one of several performers involved in the Super Bowl pregame ceremonies. Brandi Carlile was scheduled to sing “America the Beautiful”, while Charlie Puth was selected to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner”.